Creamy broccoli cheddar soup is a comforting, cheesy bowl of goodness that’s perfect for cozy evenings or as a satisfying lunch. This hearty soup features tender broccoli florets bathed in a velvety, rich cheddar cheese sauce, making it a dish that combines creamy indulgence with the freshness of vegetables. It’s the ultimate balance of flavors, earthy broccoli, sharp cheddar, and a smooth, silky base that’s sure to warm you up from the inside out.
To start, the broccoli is cooked until just tender, keeping its vibrant green color and subtle crunch. This can be done by steaming or simmering it in a flavorful vegetable or chicken broth. The real magic happens when you create the creamy base. A combination of butter, flour, and milk (or cream) is used to make a roux, which thickens the soup to that perfect, luscious consistency. Adding cheese to the mix is what really elevates the soup, with sharp cheddar being the traditional choice, providing that signature tang and creaminess.
The key to a perfect broccoli cheddar soup lies in its balance of flavors. You’ll want to season it with salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic or onion to bring out the natural sweetness of the broccoli while complementing the richness of the cheese. A sprinkle of nutmeg or a dash of cayenne pepper can add an extra layer of warmth and depth if desired.
For texture, you can either leave the broccoli in bite-sized pieces or puree part of the soup to make it smoother. Some like a chunky version where you can bite into the broccoli, while others prefer a creamier texture throughout. If you prefer a more indulgent soup, you can stir in a little extra cream for an even richer consistency.
Topped with a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese or crispy bacon bits, this creamy broccoli cheddar soup is a perfect comfort food option. It pairs beautifully with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping or a light salad for balance. It’s not only satisfying but also filled with nutrients, making it a great way to sneak in some greens while indulging in cheesy goodness.
Whether you’re craving a warm meal on a chilly day or just looking for a hearty, flavorful soup, creamy broccoli cheddar soup is the perfect choice. It’s the kind of dish you can make in one pot, easy to customize, and guaranteed to bring a smile with every spoonful.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- onion small, diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups broccoli florets fresh
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Add the broccoli florets and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender.
- Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender and blend until smooth, then return to the pot.
- Stir in the milk and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition
I don’t really like broccoli, but this soup changed my mind! So good!
I’m so glad you enjoyed it! Broccoli soup can be really tasty if done right. Love a good creamy soup!
Really? I tried it and thought it was too thick. How can you not taste the broccoli? Maybe I did something wrong.
I was skeptical at first but wow, it turned out great! My kids loved it. Will make again!
This soup is soooo good! I made it last night and it was gone in minutes!
I’m so glad you liked it! It’s a family favorite at my house too.
I tried it once and it was too thick for my taste. Maybe I messed up? I don’t know.
I don’t like broccoli, but my kids loved it! Guess I gotta make it more often.
I dunno… broccoli is kinda weird. But if the kids like it, that’s what matters, I guess.
That’s awesome! Kids usually know what’s good. You might even find broccoli becomes a family favorite!
GREAT soup! Just add some croutons on top for a lil crunch.
Absolutely! Croutons make everything better! I usually add a sprinkle of chili flakes too for some kick.
I dunno, croutons sounds fancy, but ain’t that a bit crunchy for soup? I like mine smooth.
Broccoli soup? not my favorite but this was ok, I guess.
Who even puts milk in soup? Not for me, too weird.
Tried this but it came out too thick. I guess I didn’t add enough broth? Still tasted ok though.
Fantastic soup. Best I have ever make! Thanks!
I’m so glad you loved it! This soup is a hit in my family too!
Best you ever make? Really? I think that’s kinda exaggerated, but glad you liked it.
Too much cheese! It made it too heavy for me. I prefer mine with just a bit of cheddar.
This soup is amazing! So creamy and delicious. I added some crispy bacon on top, and it was a hit!
Pro tip: use more garlic! Gives it more flavor and yumminess.
This soup is amazing! I love how creamy it is. Perfect for a cold day! 😍
I had a bit of trouble with the blending part. Mine didn’t turn out as creamy. Maybe I blended too long?
I burnt the bottom. Gotta watch it closely, haha. Still tasted ok tho!
Burnt? That’s not the best haha. But at least you tried! Maybe try a lower heat?
It happens! Just keep an eye on it next time. Glad it still tasted good!
ok so I just added a lil hot sauce n wow it was yummy!
I was skeptical at first, but this recipe turned out pretty good. I might add some carrots next time.
I dunno why people like this. I found it kinda tasteless. I prefer a more flavorful version.
I actually loved this soup! Maybe you just need to add more seasoning? It’s so creamy and comforting!
Not bad, but I think it needs more cheese.
I totally agree! More cheese makes everything better. I usually add like double the cheese! 🧀
Nah, I think the recipe is fine as is. Too much cheese might ruin the broccoli flavor.
This soup is AMAZING! So creamy and cheesy. Perfect for rainy days.
I tried this recipe and it turned out so good! Thanks for sharing! 🥰
I dunno, I think broccoli in soup is kinda weird. Cheese is great tho…
I drank a gallon of veg broth just to make this soup. I think I messed something up, tasted like grass. 🙁
I used frozen broccoli and it still tasted great! Quick dinner.
Just made this and now I’m addicted. Thanks for sharing!
It literally took me an hour to make. Might as well have ordered takeout. Idk why it’s so popular.
Broccoli in soup? Yuck. I tried it and still didn’t like it. No thanks.
I actually love broccoli in my soup! It’s so creamy and delicious. Maybe you just didn’t get the right recipe? Give it another shot!
Yea, broccoli soup sounds weird to me too. Just don’t understand why you would want that in soup. Give me a tomato any day.
I forgot to buy milk, so I used cream instead. It was too rich! But tasty!
I don’t understand how anyone can enjoy broccoli. This sounds gross.
It was ok. I feel like it needed more flavor or something. Maybe add some spices?
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Do you really need the milk? Can I just skip it? Not sure if it makes that much difference.
The soup is too thick! I don’t think it needs that much cheese! Who needs that much cheese? 😩
This looks recipe is too hard for me. I’m not good in kitchens. But my husband liked it!
Don’t worry! It’s not that hard once you try it. If your husband liked it, you can definitely make it work! Just take your time.
Very yummy – as are all Coolinarco’s recipes
Hey Mara, thanks a bunch! Feel free to add your twist to the recipes. You can submit it using the “SUBMIT YOUR RECIPE” option on the home page. We’d be thrilled to see what you create!
Can I use frozen broccoli instead? I don’t have fresh ones right now.
Yum! Me and my kids gobbled it up! Pretty easy too. Will teach my kids to make it! 🙂
That’s great to hear! Cooking with kids is the best! 🥰
I tried it but the broccoli was too mushy after boiling… maybe need to reduce the time?
Yeah, the broccoli can get mushy if you overcook it. Maybe try 10-15 min instead? Good luck!
Absolutely delicious! I added some croutons on top.
Soooo creamy! I added some bacon bits and it took it to another level!
This soup was delicious! So creamy and cheesy, my family loved it! Will definitely make again.
Yum! Made this for my kids and they loved it! Will definitely make again!
Followed the recipe but it turned out too runny for me. What went wrong?
Maybe you added too much broth? That could make it runny. Try less next time!
You sure you followed it right? Sounds easy to me. Not runny at all when I make it!
Broccoli is gross!!! I made this soup for my partner who loves it and I had to hold my nose. They liked it tho.
This soup is amazing! So creamy and cheesy, my kids loved it!
Not a fan, too cheesy for my taste. Maybe less cheese next time?
This soup is AMAZING! So creamy and delicious! Can’t believe how easy it was to make.
Honestly, this didn’t turn out great for me. It was too thick and just bland. I think I needed more seasoning or something.
This soup is the best! My kids loved it, will make again.
For real? My kids won’t even touch broccoli! What’s the magic? 🤔
I’m glad you liked it! This recipe is a hit in my house too! 🥰
Love this recipe. So easy, too! My kids even liked it, which is a miracle.
Why would you use whole milk? It’s so bad for you! I used almond milk instead and it was still good.
Quick and easy. If I can make it, anyone can! LOL. Thanks for the recipe.
Not bad, but I’ve had better broccoli cheddar soups. Maybe needs more seasoning? Idk.
Bleh. I was tryna impress my girlfriend and she was like ‘uhh it’s ok’. Not making this again!
This soup is simply amazing! Rich and creamy, perfect for winter days!
Eh, it wasn’t bad but I’ve had better broccoli cheddar soups. I think it needed more flavor, maybe a pinch of nutmeg?
I totally agree! A little nutmeg could really elevate the taste. I usually add a splash of lemon juice too for some zing!
More flavor? I thought it was amazing! Everyone has different tastes tho, I guess.
Delicious! I added some croutons on top, made it even better!
so good! but can u use almond milk? I can’t have cows!
My kids loved it! I didn’t puree it and that made it more fun for them. Will make again!
Super easy recipe! But, why so much butter? Can I use olive oil instead?
Ugh, I found it way too salty. Next time I might skip the salt altogether. Not a fan.
Salt’s important though! It brings out the flavors. Maybe try using less next time?
I totally get you! I found it a bit salty too. Maybe just a pinch of salt instead of two tablespoons?
I don’t know how to blend things right, so mine is lumpy. Still good tho.
Yuck! This was a disaster! My blender kind of exploded everywhere, and now my kitchen is a mess! 😡
This soup was amazing! I added extra cheese and it turned out really good. Perfect for a chilly day!
Soup is ok but I prefer mine with more cheese. Next time I’ll double it!
YUM!
I’m not a fan of broccoli soup. It tasted too green for me. I’m more into tomato soup.
Recipe needs more salt! It was a bit bland, but I added some garlic powder and it was better.
I made it but skipped the milk. It was still good but thicker. Does anyone else do that?
Wait, isn’t the milk important? I mean, it says creamy in the title! Are you sure it was good? 🤔
I skipped the milk too once! It was still tasty, just a bit different texture. I like it thick sometimes. Good call!
I don’t understand why mine didn’t turn out creamy like yours. Followed the recipe exactly!
Maybe your cheese wasn’t melted enough? That can change the creaminess.
Bleh! Didn’t like it. Not enough flavor, I think it needed meat or sumthin.
Too much garlic for my liking. Had to add more veggies to balance it out.
Took less time than I expected, and no blender mess! Great for lazy evenings.
I love this recipe! It’s so easy and perfect for weeknights. Who needs a blender anyway?
Looks good but is it really that easy? I always mess up soup!
Sooo creamy! Will make again for sure. Thanks for sharing! 😊
Super easy to make! I didn’t have broccoli so used spinach instead. Still turned out great!
Meh, I think broccoli is kinda gross…but the soup was okay.
I totally get it! Broccoli can be a bit much, but this soup is surprisingly tasty! Maybe try blending it really well?
I think hmmm broccoli in soup? Sounds weird, but I tried it and it’s actually not bad!
It was ok, but I think it needed more cheese. Next time I’ll add a little extra.
Easy recipe! My kids loved it. I used frozen broccoli and it worked fine. Will make again!
I love broccoli cheddar soup but never made it before. This recipe was easy to follow! Thanks for sharing. 😊
This soup is sooo good! I made it last night and my family loved it. I added some croutons on top and it was perfect.
So simple, yet so delicious! The cheese is the best part!
Easy to make, but I threw in some chicken for extra protein. Who needs just veggies?!
Perfect for cold days! I added some cayenne for a little kick, yum!
Yum! This soup is everything! I tried it with some crushed crackers on top, and it was delish. Will definitely make again! 🌟
I never thought about adding cayenne! Sounds interesting, but I like my soups mild. I’m more of a plain cheese kinda person.
Honestly, I was skeptical about adding milk to a soup, but wow, it really worked! Just be careful not to boil it after adding the cheese.
Yummy! But maybe a lil too much cheese for my taste.
I think the cheese is what makes it so good! But I get that it’s not for everyone. You could always use less next time!
Too much cheese? Nah! More cheese is better, amirite? 😂 Anyway, I loved it just the way it is!
Honestly, I was skeptical at first. But it turned out better than I expected! Still, a bit too much cheese for my taste.
I love brocolli and cheese yum!! But how come it don’t look like the picture?? 🙁
Sometimes the pics are just too good to be true! But I bet it still tastes amazing! 😋
simple n easy. I’m no chef but i managed to not burn it down.
Glad to hear you managed it! It’s super forgiving. I think I’m gonna try it too!
No offense, but it’s just soup. Anyone can do it. But good job, I guess?
Uh, is this really considered a soup? I thought it was more like a mush. Not impressed.
Y’all this recipe is an absolute win! I added some crushed red pepper for a kick! 🍲🔥
Yum! I also added some paprika for an extra kick. Best broccoli soup ever! 🍲
Paprika sounds like a great addition! I’ll have to try that next time. Thanks for sharing! 😊
Alright recipe, but I forgot to add salt. Lesson learned: always taste before serving!
Delicious!! I will make it again for sure.
I followed this recipe exactly and it was like heaven in a bowl! Highly recommend!
Heaven? Really? It sounds good, but I wonder if it’s too cheesy. 🤔
I’m glad you enjoyed it! I made this last week and my family loved it too. Super easy!
I think I forgot the salt. LOL! 😅 Might try again.
Wow, delicious! Even my husband who hates veggies ate it all! #MiracleSoup
Sounds amazing! I need to try this, especially if it can win over veggie haters. 🤩
This soup is sooo good! Perfect for a cold day.
Sounds nice, but is it really as good as you say? I had a terrible broccoli soup once.
I made this last night and it was a hit! My kids actually ate broccoli for once! Thanks!